The most common type of silver that we buy is Sterling Silver. These are marked somewhere on the item with “Sterling” or “925”. While more rare, we do buy coin silver. Coin silver is strictly made in the United States and is usually marked with “COIN” or “PURE COIN”. Although commonly mistaken as Sterling Silver, we do not buy Silver Plated items. Silver Plated items have an outside layer of Sterling Silver, but have nickel or base metal underneath that layer. To tell whether the item you have is plated, check for the Sterling Silver markings known as hallmarks (often STERLING or .925 .835 etc). Silver Plated is hard and will not bend like Sterling or Coin silver.
We also buy Sterling Silver flatware and serving pieces. Sterling flatware and servings pieces will have the same markings as other Sterling items, with the word “Sterling” stamped into the flatware. This is usually visible on the back of forks and spoons, or the handle of knives. For serving pieces this mark is usually on the base or back of the item. Some common makers of Sterling Silver flatware sets and serving pieces are Gorham, Reed & Barton, Wallace, Towle, Georg Jensen and Tiffany & Co. If the word “STERLING” is not on the flatware, it is most likely silver plated, which has no monetary value and can be donated or given away.
Most Native American jewelry pieces are made of sterling silver and will have the hallmarks shown above. Common pieces we see are squash blossom necklaces, turquoise and red coral rings, concho belts and cuff bracelets. Highly desirable pieces like this will also have the artist’s stamp which usually consists of their initials. Jewelry of this category sells best with its original patina and wear – do not polish these items!
If you have fine jewelry, luxury watches, coins, or collectibles you no longer use, you might be sitting on more value than you think. Right now, certain high-quality items are seeing strong demand across the United States, and selling them has never been easier.
If you have ever wondered how to tell if jewelry is real, here are some simple tips.
Estate jewelry carries stories. It could be an heirloom diamond ring, a vintage bracelet passed down through generations, or an antique brooch that has been sitting in a jewelry box for decades. When it comes time to part with these pieces, many people assume the best option is to list them online. After all, it’s quick, convenient, and seemingly exposes your items to a wide audience.
But here’s the catch: convenience doesn’t always mean value. In fact, working with estate jewelry buyers in person at a trusted buying event often leads to stronger offers, and here’s why.
At first glance, selling online feels straightforward. Take a few photos, post a description, and wait for bids or offers. The reality? It’s rarely that simple.
Market Uncertainty – Unless you’re an expert, it’s difficult to know if your asking price matches the true market value.
Risk of Scams – Online platforms carry the risk of fraudulent buyers or disputes after the sale.
Fees and Commissions – Many websites take a percentage of your final sale price, cutting into your profit. Some charge as much as 15% for the sale, plus shipping fees and insurance eats into the sale as well.
Time Commitment – Listing, responding to messages, negotiating, shipping, and insuring all fall on you. Some items may take months to sell online
What looked like a quick transaction often turns into weeks of effort, with no guarantee of getting the best price.
National Rarities hosts buying events across the U.S., partnering with local jewelers to provide a safe and professional place to sell. For those looking to sell estate jewelry, these events create a very different experience:
On-the-Spot Appraisals – Trained buyers evaluate your items right in front of you. No waiting for online bids.
Fair Market Offers – Because buyers work with current demand and know what collectors are seeking, you receive a competitive, real-time offer.
Immediate Payment – Accept the offer, and you leave with cash the same day.
No Hassle – No shipping, no photographing, no online fees. Just straightforward selling.
One of the biggest advantages of an in-person event is the expertise behind the appraisal. A vintage Art Deco ring, for example, may look like just another piece of jewelry online. To the right buyer, however, its craftsmanship, period design, and rarity give it added value.
This is where estate jewelry buyers excel: recognizing the unique qualities that online shoppers or generic resale sites might overlook. If you’re looking to sell vintage jewelry, working with professionals ensures your piece is valued for more than just its metal or gemstone weight.
Selling online might feel convenient, but when the goal is to maximize your return, in-person buying events consistently outperform. The combination of expert evaluation, immediate offers, and competitive pricing means your estate jewelry gets the respect and the cash offer it deserves.
Instead of settling for less online, consider attending a National Rarities buying event near you. You may be surprised by just how much your treasures are worth when they’re seen by the right eyes.
